The senior women’s football team, The Mares, have recently demonstrated promising performances at the Three Nations Tournament held in South Africa, igniting hope that with increased support and resources, they can excel at the upcoming WAFCON slated for July in Morocco.

The Mares showcased resilience against some of Africa’s top teams, including South Africa’s Banyana Banyana and Zambia’s Copper Queens. In their opening match, they mounted a remarkable comeback from a 3-0 deficit to narrow the score to 3-2, a display that even rattled their  opponents.

The team continued to impress, earning a hard-fought draw against the Copper Queens, finishing 1-1 in a game that proved their growing prowess and determination on the field.

Football analysts believe that these achievements highlight The Mares’ potential to perform better  , provided they receive the necessary support and resources ahead of the WAFCON tournament.

BOPA reporter Anastacia Sibanda took to the streets of Gaborone to gauge public sentiment and explore what fans hoped for as the team prepares for the continental tournament.

Pamela Tidimalo:  She said the team needed the nation's support afforded to male teams. “We have a balanced squad that can compete fiercely. Let us support and encourage them now, not just when they return with good results.”

Ofentse Kgari: To him, there was need for the media to support womens football. “The team  has been doing well; it is up to the media to educate the nation about supporting the team. We have talented players capable of causing upsets,” he said.  

Dorcus Lebelelang: She pointed out that it was the team’s second qualification for a major tournament: It speaks volumes about their progress. Sadly,  she said the team has been given enough exposurenot enough noise is being made about them, despite their recent impressive performances. We should organise more international friendlies to give the coach broader options before final selections.”

Montshwari Mangadi: We need to support The Mares and if there is a team that is capable of qualifying for the World Cup, it is The Mares. Let us rally behind the team with everything we have because we want them to compete and not to participate.  ENDS